PodCrushed Episode Summary: Amber Midthunder

Release Date: March 12, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of PodCrushed, hosts Penn Badgley, Nava Kavlin, and Sophie Ansari sit down with the talented actress Amber Midthunder. The conversation delves deep into Amber's journey from her formative years to her rising career in the film industry, highlighting her cultural heritage, personal experiences, and insightful perspectives on representation in media.

Early Life and Cultural Heritage

Amber opens up about her unique upbringing, blending Indigenous and Thai cultures. Born on the Navajo reservation in Montana, she shares how her diverse background has profoundly influenced her identity and worldview.

Amber Midthunder [11:19]: "I was born on the Navajo reservation, which is not my reservation. My reservation's in Montana. It's called Fort Peck... My mom is half Thai, Chinese, and half white, and she was born in Thailand."

She emphasizes the importance of cultural identity, explaining how it forms the foundation of who she is, while also acknowledging the multifaceted nature of her persona.

Amber Midthunder [13:18]: "Cultural identity is so interesting because it's like, it's hard to explain to other people how it's like simultaneously the most important... and also it's only one facet of who you are."

Path to Acting and Early Experiences

Amber discusses her early exposure to the film industry through her parents, both of whom work in film. Despite growing up amidst the hustle of Hollywood from ages five to nine, her parents prioritized a grounded childhood away from the limelight.

Amber Midthunder [14:37]: "My parents were very conscious about not wanting me to live in the middle of nowhere and just have a real kid experience."

She recounts her first role at age ten, a pivotal moment where she realized her passion for acting despite initial fears.

Amber Midthunder [07:04]: "I remember I got a role one time on a show when I was like 10... I just like, I don't want to do that. I'm scared."

Personal Stories: First Crush and Heartbreak

Amber shares charming anecdotes from her middle school days, offering a glimpse into her vibrant personality during adolescence.

• First Crush: Amber vividly remembers her kindergarten crush, a boy named Colby, showcasing her early boldness.

  Amber Midthunder [37:06]: "I approached him at recess and was like, so you're my boyfriend? And he was like, oh my gosh."

• First Heartbreak: She recounts a dramatic story from high school where her brother intervened to protect her, leading to a memorable moment.

  Amber Midthunder [38:36]: "My brother beat up my first boyfriend... On my birthday, my brother picked him up and they fought."

Career Highlights and Key Projects

Amber delves into her significant roles, particularly highlighting her work in "Prey" and upcoming projects "Novocain" and "Opus."

• "Prey": Her role in this culturally significant film reinforced her commitment to authentic Indigenous representation.

  Amber Midthunder [43:41]: "It was so nice for me to be able to have an experience like that where I was, like, working with so many indigenous people."

• "Novocain": Amber discusses taking on roles that diverge from traditional tropes, exploring vulnerability and strength in her characters.

  Amber Midthunder [58:42]: "She is still very feisty and, like, cool and strong. But, yeah, the position she's in in the movie was, like, in so many ways, things I had never done."

• "Opus": Collaborating with legends like John Malkovich and Ayo Adebri, Amber shares memorable moments from the set.

  Amber Midthunder [65:37]: "IO is just like, she's crazy and she's amazing. She's the smartest, most funny person I've ever met in my life."

Acting Process and Representation

Amber emphasizes the importance of representation and authenticity in storytelling. She reflects on her audition process and the responsibility of portraying Indigenous characters with integrity.

Amber Midthunder [46:43]: "I genuinely love Dan Trachtenberg with my whole heart... It felt like something that existed outside of me."

She highlights the collaborative environment on set, ensuring that her voice and the voices of her Indigenous colleagues were respected and integral to the storytelling.

Reflecting on Past and Future

Looking back, Amber offers heartfelt advice to her younger self, advocating for self-acceptance and recognizing her place in the world.

Amber Midthunder [65:49]: "If I could talk to her, I would be like, listen, everything you're doing, keep doing it. And you don't have to be so like, don't feel the need to explain or excuse what you do and just that there is a place for you."

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Amber expressing gratitude for her experiences and the supportive community around her. Her journey is a testament to the power of cultural heritage, resilience, and authentic representation in the arts.

Amber Midthunder [67:48]: "This is amazing to talk to you guys and also simultaneously a nightmare for me."

Key Takeaways

• Cultural Identity: Amber's Indigenous and Thai heritage plays a crucial role in shaping her personal and professional life.

• Authentic Representation: Her commitment to authentic storytelling ensures meaningful representation in media.

• Personal Growth: Amber's reflections on her early experiences underscore the importance of self-acceptance and resilience.

Notable Quotes

• On Cultural Identity:

  "Cultural identity is so interesting because it's like, it's hard to explain to other people how it's like simultaneously the most important... and also it's only one facet of who you are." – Amber Midthunder [13:18]

• On First Crush:

  "I approached him at recess and was like, so you're my boyfriend? And he was like, oh my gosh." – Amber Midthunder [37:06]

• On Representation in Acting:

  "I think when we're let into these spaces, whether it's like a culture focused story or culture focused role or not, there's something really special that we get to like, interject into that space." – Amber Midthunder [13:18]

Final Thoughts

Amber Midthunder's candid and insightful narrative offers listeners a rich tapestry of her life, challenges, and triumphs. Her dedication to authentic representation and her dynamic approach to acting make her a compelling figure in today's film landscape. This episode of PodCrushed not only entertains but also inspires, resonating deeply with anyone navigating the complexities of self-discovery and creative expression.